Govt Planning “Double Shock” for Power Consumers : Yuri Alemao
Panaji: Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao on Monday criticised the state government’s proposed electricity tariff hike and the planned rollout of smart meters, terming the twin measures a “double shock” for Goan power consumers.
In a statement, Alemao said, “I strongly oppose the proposed hike in electricity tariff. It will place an unfair burden on consumers, particularly households and small businesses. With the simultaneous push for smart meters, the government is adding to public hardship instead of providing relief.”
Alemao revealed that he has already submitted a representation to the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC), urging it not to approve the proposed increase. He argued that the tariff hike would further strain the cost of living for many Goans already facing financial pressure.
Criticising the government’s fiscal priorities, the Congress leader highlighted the failure of the Electricity Department to recover dues amounting to nearly ₹600 crore from commercial, industrial, and government consumers. “Rather than focusing on recovery of these dues, the department is shifting the burden onto ordinary citizens,” he said.
Alemao also referred to the January 2022 tariff revision approved by the JERC, which the state government later froze ahead of elections. “This clearly shows how power tariffs are manipulated for political convenience,” he remarked.
He further cautioned that the high installation cost of smart meters would inevitably be passed on to consumers, worsening their financial load.
The proposal has sparked concern among residents and civil society groups, with many questioning the timing and transparency of the government’s decisions on electricity reforms.
